Status
Available
Call number
Genres
Collection
Publication
Poppy (2010), Edition: 1, Hardcover, 384 pages
Description
In this contemporary retelling of "Jane Eyre," an orphaned nanny becomes entranced with her magnetic and brooding employer, a rock star with a torturous secret from his past.
User reviews
LibraryThing member lifeafterjane
I couldn't live here with you and your new wife, and watch myself become nothing to you...because that's what would happen, and I couldn't stand it. Do you think because I'm...ordinary...that I don't have feelings?" I could hear my voice rising, carrying across the field, but for once I didn't care
Jane's past was a tragic one even before the sudden death of both her parents. As a pale comparison to a beautiful older sister and an overly praised brother, love and happiness were never things to be found at home. With her parents' death, Jane is forced to abandon her dreams of an education and seek employment before the close of the semester leaves her homeless. When a position as a nanny is offered to Jane she is unable to say no to the income, or to the home the new job would provide- a rich, lavish home on the country estate of a world famous musician.
Nico Rathburn is an international rock sensation in the midst of planning his return to the stage. The life of a rock star is always fuel for any tabloid, and Nico's past filled with drugs, the very public end of his marriage, a bitter breakup with a rising pop star and the birth of his daughter have fanned the flame of scandal for many years.
When sensible, level headed Jane takes on the task of caring for his daughter, her straight forward honesty and practicality is just what Nico needs in his new, more somber life. Both desperately in need of real friendship and feeling, a heated romance soon develops between them. But of all the scandals Nico has been involved in over the course of his career, the newspapers have yet to discover the deep, dark secret that exists in his very home- a secret that could shock the world, finish his career and cost him Jane's love.
Whenever an author takes on the retelling of a classic, one can only imagine the fear and tension that surrounds her as she waits to see how her vision is received. She could easily offend lovers of the classic, snub the original author's vision and alienate herself (and the story) from a new generation of readers. In short, if you've read the real thing, an adaptation, poorly done, can be much more disastrous than if the author had simply written a bad original novel. Or worse it could result in that horrible American Idol moment where Simon Cowell frowns and asks why the singer couldn't be bothered to try to make the song his own or berates him for making it too closely resembling the original.
This is the apprehension I felt when I first heard about Jane but after having devoured the book in a few short hours, I can tell you that I'm just so damned proud of Lindner's work. She more than pulled it off.
Have you read Jane Eyre? If you have you know it's a dark, depressing story full of so much self loathing it makes you want to spit but it's so damned romantic and everyone is just so emotionally tortured that you LOVE IT. And while Lindner stayed remarkably close to the original story- with it's tragedy, mystery and brooding leading man, our modern Jane is the story's real hero. When faced with Nico's horrible secret and lies, she has enough sense to say to hell with this and take care of herself- more importantly, remove herself from an absolutely retched situation and let that man handle his own CRAP. She's the poster child for ever poor college student who's ever lived on ramen noodles and worked a crap job to pay for an education and I adore her for not letting her heart get in the way of just plain good sense. The romantic in me so wanted her to enjoy the love that she very desperately needed to find and the single gal in me wanted to bring her a pizza and self help books with titles like "You Don't Need That Shit" and "Don't Go Back To Him Until He is a Wrecked Pitiful Shell of a Man and Begs You."
I loved her. I loved the romance between two people who were so very much in need of real love. Even knowing what Nico's secret was, the build up and suspense was handled masterfully. I couldn't wait for the shock to come. I loved watching as Jane gained some much needed self-acceptance and was able to approach this love as a self-assured, mature woman.
But while I'm glad she got everything she deserved, between you and me, I wanted to stick my fist in Nico's eye. In his defense I wanted to stick it in River's too.
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what the world thought of me. "Because I do have feelings, and if I were beautiful and talented and famous, I'd make it as hard for you to leave me as it is for me to leave you."Jane's past was a tragic one even before the sudden death of both her parents. As a pale comparison to a beautiful older sister and an overly praised brother, love and happiness were never things to be found at home. With her parents' death, Jane is forced to abandon her dreams of an education and seek employment before the close of the semester leaves her homeless. When a position as a nanny is offered to Jane she is unable to say no to the income, or to the home the new job would provide- a rich, lavish home on the country estate of a world famous musician.
Nico Rathburn is an international rock sensation in the midst of planning his return to the stage. The life of a rock star is always fuel for any tabloid, and Nico's past filled with drugs, the very public end of his marriage, a bitter breakup with a rising pop star and the birth of his daughter have fanned the flame of scandal for many years.
When sensible, level headed Jane takes on the task of caring for his daughter, her straight forward honesty and practicality is just what Nico needs in his new, more somber life. Both desperately in need of real friendship and feeling, a heated romance soon develops between them. But of all the scandals Nico has been involved in over the course of his career, the newspapers have yet to discover the deep, dark secret that exists in his very home- a secret that could shock the world, finish his career and cost him Jane's love.
Whenever an author takes on the retelling of a classic, one can only imagine the fear and tension that surrounds her as she waits to see how her vision is received. She could easily offend lovers of the classic, snub the original author's vision and alienate herself (and the story) from a new generation of readers. In short, if you've read the real thing, an adaptation, poorly done, can be much more disastrous than if the author had simply written a bad original novel. Or worse it could result in that horrible American Idol moment where Simon Cowell frowns and asks why the singer couldn't be bothered to try to make the song his own or berates him for making it too closely resembling the original.
This is the apprehension I felt when I first heard about Jane but after having devoured the book in a few short hours, I can tell you that I'm just so damned proud of Lindner's work. She more than pulled it off.
Have you read Jane Eyre? If you have you know it's a dark, depressing story full of so much self loathing it makes you want to spit but it's so damned romantic and everyone is just so emotionally tortured that you LOVE IT. And while Lindner stayed remarkably close to the original story- with it's tragedy, mystery and brooding leading man, our modern Jane is the story's real hero. When faced with Nico's horrible secret and lies, she has enough sense to say to hell with this and take care of herself- more importantly, remove herself from an absolutely retched situation and let that man handle his own CRAP. She's the poster child for ever poor college student who's ever lived on ramen noodles and worked a crap job to pay for an education and I adore her for not letting her heart get in the way of just plain good sense. The romantic in me so wanted her to enjoy the love that she very desperately needed to find and the single gal in me wanted to bring her a pizza and self help books with titles like "You Don't Need That Shit" and "Don't Go Back To Him Until He is a Wrecked Pitiful Shell of a Man and Begs You."
I loved her. I loved the romance between two people who were so very much in need of real love. Even knowing what Nico's secret was, the build up and suspense was handled masterfully. I couldn't wait for the shock to come. I loved watching as Jane gained some much needed self-acceptance and was able to approach this love as a self-assured, mature woman.
But while I'm glad she got everything she deserved, between you and me, I wanted to stick my fist in Nico's eye. In his defense I wanted to stick it in River's too.
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LibraryThing member VandyGirl
Anyone who has read Charlotte Bronte’s "Jane Eyre" already knows exactly what happens in "Jane", but that’s half the fun. In this modernized retelling, Jane Moore is a college freshman when her parents both die in a car accident. She is left with next to nothing, and makes the difficult
The modern update given to the story makes the language and setting more approachable to all readers as well as speeding up the pace of the story. The downside is that the modern setting makes it harder to imagine the middle-aged grouch falling in love with his teenage nanny, and vice versa. It is easy to see Lindner’s love of the original story; the characters are lovingly re-imagined and the story is smooth and sweet. A perfect novel for ages 12 – 112.
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decision to leave school and seek work as a nanny. Jane is not obsessed with pop culture and has never chased a celebrity down the New York City streets. Discriminating Nannies, Inc. believes this makes her the perfect choice for the nanny to Maddy, the young daughter of mega-watt rock star Nico Rathburn. Jane does not fall head-over-heels because of his fame or fortune, instead she learns to love the man behind the famous face.The modern update given to the story makes the language and setting more approachable to all readers as well as speeding up the pace of the story. The downside is that the modern setting makes it harder to imagine the middle-aged grouch falling in love with his teenage nanny, and vice versa. It is easy to see Lindner’s love of the original story; the characters are lovingly re-imagined and the story is smooth and sweet. A perfect novel for ages 12 – 112.
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LibraryThing member Booklady123
In the interest of full disclosure, I must tell you that I received this ARC from the publisher. They only requested I read and post my review of the book. There were no requirements stipulated on the type of review.
Having said that, I’m so glad I received this review. I’m a big fan of Jane
Jane Moore is forced to drop out of college after the sudden death of her cold and distant parents. Abandoned by her older brother and sister, Jane is forced to find a job. She takes a job as a nanny at Thornfield Park, the estate of brooding and handsome rock star Nico Rathburn. As in the original Jane falls for her employer and is surprised to find he returns her feelings. Of course, Nico is embroiled in a mystery that threatens to ruin everything. Jane is torn between her feelings for Nico and the consequences of his secret.
Jane is an irresistible romance and a new classic. This is an excellent story to study along with the original. I almost wish I were back in school so I could do just that.
Having said that, I’m so glad I received this review. I’m a big fan of Jane
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Eyre. I would not have believed it possible to find a well-written modern version of the Jane Eyre story. I was wrong. I could not put this book down. Lindner stays loyal to the original while giving it a believable modern twist. Even though I knew the story line and knew what to expect next, I found myself eagerly anticipating each step in the story.Jane Moore is forced to drop out of college after the sudden death of her cold and distant parents. Abandoned by her older brother and sister, Jane is forced to find a job. She takes a job as a nanny at Thornfield Park, the estate of brooding and handsome rock star Nico Rathburn. As in the original Jane falls for her employer and is surprised to find he returns her feelings. Of course, Nico is embroiled in a mystery that threatens to ruin everything. Jane is torn between her feelings for Nico and the consequences of his secret.
Jane is an irresistible romance and a new classic. This is an excellent story to study along with the original. I almost wish I were back in school so I could do just that.
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LibraryThing member derbyn
Boy, I didn't like this book. I wonder if I would have if I hadn't loved Jane Eyre so much, but then again, why would I read this if I didn't love Jane Eyre? In this story, Jane is the nanny for the daughter of a famous rock star. Lindner cuts out pretty much all of Jane's early development. We
Nico Rathburn is a version of Mr. Rochester with all the creep and none of the charm. Not that I'm saying that his emotional manipulation in Jane Eyre is acceptable, but it was a different time. Now he just seems like a middle-aged celebrity taking advantage of the young and impressionable nanny. Plus the mechanics of the plot of his wife are just ridiculous when put into modern times. We're supposed to expect that he's okay with keeping this violent and schizophrenic woman in the same house as his young daughter, under the supervision of a woman who tends to drink herself into a stupor and leave out sharp things for her charge to play with? In what universe is this plausible? Answer: none.
My roommate actually told me about this book awhile ago and I was looking for a reason to read it. I will say that while I disliked it immensely, it was ridiculously compelling in the way that Twilight and 50 Shades of Grey were. I couldn't put it down. I stayed up until 4am reading it one night, even though I knew what was going to happen. I kept turning the pages, saying "This is terrible, this is terrible!!"
I would hesitate to recommend this during a booktalk alongside Jane Eyre, mainly because I would be afraid that someone might read this instead of the classic. But I suppose it appeals in the same way fanfiction appeals, so fans of the original might be interested in giving this a look. I will say that it hasn't diminished my love for the original at all, so that's something.
Most reviews I read were from people who have read Jane Eyre, and a good chunk of them felt the same way I felt. But there were some people who read it as a stand-alone without knowing the original story and loved it. I would have found the mechanics of fitting the antiquated plotline into modern times and filling the holes to be a dealbreaker, I think.
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learn that she comes from a fairly cold family and her parents died when she was in college, forcing her to drop out of school and take the nannying position. We see how she was emotionally abused but we see nothing about her rising above it and learning to love, as she does when she makes her first friend in Jane Eyre. This Jane has very little personality, and we don't really know a lot about what makes her tick as a human being.Nico Rathburn is a version of Mr. Rochester with all the creep and none of the charm. Not that I'm saying that his emotional manipulation in Jane Eyre is acceptable, but it was a different time. Now he just seems like a middle-aged celebrity taking advantage of the young and impressionable nanny. Plus the mechanics of the plot of his wife are just ridiculous when put into modern times. We're supposed to expect that he's okay with keeping this violent and schizophrenic woman in the same house as his young daughter, under the supervision of a woman who tends to drink herself into a stupor and leave out sharp things for her charge to play with? In what universe is this plausible? Answer: none.
My roommate actually told me about this book awhile ago and I was looking for a reason to read it. I will say that while I disliked it immensely, it was ridiculously compelling in the way that Twilight and 50 Shades of Grey were. I couldn't put it down. I stayed up until 4am reading it one night, even though I knew what was going to happen. I kept turning the pages, saying "This is terrible, this is terrible!!"
I would hesitate to recommend this during a booktalk alongside Jane Eyre, mainly because I would be afraid that someone might read this instead of the classic. But I suppose it appeals in the same way fanfiction appeals, so fans of the original might be interested in giving this a look. I will say that it hasn't diminished my love for the original at all, so that's something.
Most reviews I read were from people who have read Jane Eyre, and a good chunk of them felt the same way I felt. But there were some people who read it as a stand-alone without knowing the original story and loved it. I would have found the mechanics of fitting the antiquated plotline into modern times and filling the holes to be a dealbreaker, I think.
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LibraryThing member katiekrug
A contemporary re-telling of Jane Eyre for the young adult audience. It wasn’t awful but it definitely could have been better. Mr. Rochester is a rock star; Jane is a college student forced to drop out of school and find work; there is still a mad woman in the attic and suspicious goings on. The
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biggest failure here, though, is Lindner’s inability to capture the atmosphere of the original – or really any atmosphere at all. It felt neither mysterious nor foreboding. And Jane was incredibly annoying and “woe is me” for most of the book. Despite all the flaws, I am a bit of a sucker for contemporary versions of classics and this one was kind of fun. Show Less
LibraryThing member Capnrandm
This book never drew me in past the basic "adaptation check box" feeling. I was drawn through the story mainly by my curiosity to see how Lindner was going to reinterpret each facet of the story, but I never felt particularyl connected to Jane or Nico. I wish Lindner was a little less faithful to
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the original and a little more creative in bringing Jane to life. Show Less
LibraryThing member calmclam
Fun and rather a romp, but this falls prey to the easiest pitfall of modern retellings: the events of Jane Eyre just don't make sense for a modern couple. Why wouldn't Rochester send his wife somewhere else? Or at least get her round-the-clock care? Why doesn't Jane go see her financial aid office
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when her parents unexpectedly die? Who meets and gets married in the span of about three weeks? And the biggest obstacle: to be as isolated as Jane Eyre in this day and age, Jane needed to not be the kind of girl who could immediately attract the attention of a rock star. Show Less
LibraryThing member MickyFine
Following the death of her parents in a car accident, Jane Moore is forced to drop out of Sarah Lawrence after her freshman year and work as a nanny. The agency sends her to work for international rock star Nico Rathburn, caring for his five year old daughter at his mansion in Connecticut,
Lindner's novel is a brilliant modern re-telling of Jane Eyre. She brilliantly captures the Gothic novel's romance and mystery and transposes the characters to the present quite well. Jane is still a serious and strong heroine with firm convictions. While having the male lead as a rock star might initially seem an odd choice, it actually works really well and Nico is just as an intriguing character as Mr. Rochester. My only quibble requires a spoiler warning, so skip ahead if you haven't read Jane Eyre. SPOILER: The only detail that I felt fell a little false in the modern context was the marriage proposal. While it is necessary for several of the later major plot points, I had difficulty swallowing the quick turn around from being in a relationship to being engaged, which made more sense in the 19th century than in the 21st. However, my general love for Jane Eyre helped me swallow it a little easier and the novel still works well despite this minor flaw. END SPOILER. An excellent read for those who love Jane Eyre and also a great introduction to Jane Eyre who might struggle with the linguistic quirks of the original. Very much recommended.
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Thornfield Park. Despite her own serious nature, Jane finds herself drawn to her intriguing employer. But there is a dark mystery lurking at Thornfield Park that threatens Jane's safety and her blossoming relationship with Nico.Lindner's novel is a brilliant modern re-telling of Jane Eyre. She brilliantly captures the Gothic novel's romance and mystery and transposes the characters to the present quite well. Jane is still a serious and strong heroine with firm convictions. While having the male lead as a rock star might initially seem an odd choice, it actually works really well and Nico is just as an intriguing character as Mr. Rochester. My only quibble requires a spoiler warning, so skip ahead if you haven't read Jane Eyre. SPOILER: The only detail that I felt fell a little false in the modern context was the marriage proposal. While it is necessary for several of the later major plot points, I had difficulty swallowing the quick turn around from being in a relationship to being engaged, which made more sense in the 19th century than in the 21st. However, my general love for Jane Eyre helped me swallow it a little easier and the novel still works well despite this minor flaw. END SPOILER. An excellent read for those who love Jane Eyre and also a great introduction to Jane Eyre who might struggle with the linguistic quirks of the original. Very much recommended.
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LibraryThing member kljoh
In this modern adaptation of Jane Eyre, Jane Moore is forced to drop out of Sarah Lawrence after her parents die in a car crash. She becomes nanny to the daughter of the famous and scandalous rock star, Nico Rathburn. As Jane falls in love with her employer, she also begins to realize that his life
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is filled with more secrets, mysteries, and danger than she could imagine. Those familiar with Jane Eyre will love the clever ways the characters and details are given modern twists, and those who have not read the classic will still appreciate the romantic and suspenseful plot. Jane is well written and original, avoiding the feeling of Jane Eyre was cut and pasted into a modern world. With a sex scene that may not be appropriate for younger readers, April Lindner’s Jane will be enjoyed by girls sixteen and up. This book is highly recommended for the teen and adult sections of public libraries, as well as high school libraries. Show Less
LibraryThing member rrhsmichelle
I wrote on Goodreads that I wasn't going to review this book, because the things I wanted to say about it were just too unkind. But now that it's been two weeks and I still can't get thoughts about this book to quit circling through my head, I figure I may as well put them out there and hopefully
The only redeemable quality this book boasts is that it's based on a copy of Jane Eyre. Meaning it has a built-in plot that the author was smart enough not to ravage too horribly. And the modern twist - nannies and rock stars instead of governesses and - wait, what exactly did Mr. Rochester do? - actually had some merit. Unfortunately, every other aspect of this book is complete and utter garbage.
Everything in this book is forced. The characters are forced. The relationships are forced. The writing is forced. And the dialogue? Unbearably unbelievable and unrealistic. Case in point, who on earth would ever be wooed by the following profession of love:
'I'll let you go if that's what you really want,' he said. He looked up at me from the bench, his gray eyes bottomless and warm. 'But I wish you would come back and rest your head right here.' He patted his chest. 'And let me love you the way you deserve.'
Umm, barf. That is what I would do if a man said that to me. Forget putting my head on his chest. I would cover it in vomit. It honestly seems like Lindner didn't even try to come up with convincing dialogue. Unless she and the people she associates with actually talk like this. In which case, keep them far, far away from me.
Now, we all know I didn't actually read Jane Eyre, and you may think that means I'm judging this book too harshly. But I read did the SparkNotes. And even those were more heartfelt than this book.
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put the book to rest.The only redeemable quality this book boasts is that it's based on a copy of Jane Eyre. Meaning it has a built-in plot that the author was smart enough not to ravage too horribly. And the modern twist - nannies and rock stars instead of governesses and - wait, what exactly did Mr. Rochester do? - actually had some merit. Unfortunately, every other aspect of this book is complete and utter garbage.
Everything in this book is forced. The characters are forced. The relationships are forced. The writing is forced. And the dialogue? Unbearably unbelievable and unrealistic. Case in point, who on earth would ever be wooed by the following profession of love:
'I'll let you go if that's what you really want,' he said. He looked up at me from the bench, his gray eyes bottomless and warm. 'But I wish you would come back and rest your head right here.' He patted his chest. 'And let me love you the way you deserve.'
Umm, barf. That is what I would do if a man said that to me. Forget putting my head on his chest. I would cover it in vomit. It honestly seems like Lindner didn't even try to come up with convincing dialogue. Unless she and the people she associates with actually talk like this. In which case, keep them far, far away from me.
Now, we all know I didn't actually read Jane Eyre, and you may think that means I'm judging this book too harshly. But I read did the SparkNotes. And even those were more heartfelt than this book.
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LibraryThing member TheLostEntwife
Um, hello April Lindner. You might just be my new favorite person.
Let me stop gushing a minute and start this review. Before I start though, I should let you all know that I started this book when I went to bed at 10pm last night. I read until about 2:30am. I went to sleep just after an infamous
I savored.. no, that's not right, I got drunk on every single word. If you are a fan of Jane Eyre, you might be like me and be a bit hesitant to pick this book up. I mean, modern re-telling? Rock star? Serious? But y'all, it worked. April Lindner didn't give us some hokey rock-star, teenage wanna-be in Jane, what she gave us is a seriously flawed, adult, real character for Mr. Rochester... and Jane, she was perfect. That's all I'll say.
Everything worked - and if you are like me and are a bit hesitant to rush out and buy a book by a debut author, especially when you know it's a retelling of a favorite story, then let me encourage you to at least check it out from the library, enter the contests giving it away or, you know..take a chance like I did and just buy it. It's worth it!
Let me stop gushing a minute and start this review. Before I start though, I should let you all know that I started this book when I went to bed at 10pm last night. I read until about 2:30am. I went to sleep just after an infamous
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spooky scene that bore strong resemblances to the original Jane Eyre. I woke up at 5am to a crash (it was thunder) but I couldn't see outside and thought for sure there was a crazy woman in my room. Since I was awake.. and had my light on.. I dove right back into the book and finished it at 8am this morning.I savored.. no, that's not right, I got drunk on every single word. If you are a fan of Jane Eyre, you might be like me and be a bit hesitant to pick this book up. I mean, modern re-telling? Rock star? Serious? But y'all, it worked. April Lindner didn't give us some hokey rock-star, teenage wanna-be in Jane, what she gave us is a seriously flawed, adult, real character for Mr. Rochester... and Jane, she was perfect. That's all I'll say.
Everything worked - and if you are like me and are a bit hesitant to rush out and buy a book by a debut author, especially when you know it's a retelling of a favorite story, then let me encourage you to at least check it out from the library, enter the contests giving it away or, you know..take a chance like I did and just buy it. It's worth it!
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LibraryThing member C.Ibarra
Disclaimer: I haven’t read Jane Eyre (gasp...I know). So I’m reviewing this as someone who is not a fangirl of the book that this one was based on.
Jane drops out of college because of financial woes after the death of her parents. Her quest for employment brings her to a nanny agency. She is
I adored this book. Jane is truly an endearing character. I love that she wasn’t the picture of physical perfection. Maybe it’s just me, but sometimes I get tired of reading about main characters staring in a mirror thinking how gorgeous they are. I admired her values. You can’t not like Jane. I dare you to try ;) Nico didn’t win me over immediately, but as his relationship with Jane blossomed I found my first impression changing. He had that damaged, but redeemable hero thing going on that I kind of dig. The romance between Jane and Nico was well paced. It was a case of opposites attracting, but they complimented each other so perfectly. The mystery was a nice little twist. While I found it predictable I don’t feel the predictability took away from the story. Jane’s struggles and growth is what this book is all about. Her character undergoes so many experiences during the course of the novel. Falling in love, drama with her selfish siblings, heartbreak, and more. I was surprised how quickly I finished this after picking it up. I was just so engrossed in everything that was happening. This is the kind of book you sacrifice sleep for.
I wish I could comment on how well modern day Jane lives up to the book that inspired it. I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed April Lindner’s take, and was thrilled there were no vampires, zombies, or werewolves lurking around the grounds of Thornfield Park ;) Loved the idea of a rockstar love interest. I also loved that the hottie rockstar was close to my age (he’s older though *wink*) And yes, I do plan to read Jane Eyre so maybe I’ll give this one a re-read after. Hopefully this book will encourage others to pick up the classic as well.
Jane drops out of college because of financial woes after the death of her parents. Her quest for employment brings her to a nanny agency. She is
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quickly placed as the nanny for Maddy. Maddy just happens to be the daughter of a famous rockstar who is in the midst of planning a comeback tour. Jane’s the sensible kind of girl who doesn’t crave celeb gossip, and the agency is confidant she won’t become starstruck and have it effect her job. Jane finds herself drawn to famous Nico much to her dismay, and Nico seems to relish in Jane’s straightforward attitude. After years of being told what he wants to hear it is almost as if he is grateful for her honesty. Can quiet, conservative Jane actually live the life of a rockstar’s girlfriend? Will the secrets Nico is keeping tear them apart?I adored this book. Jane is truly an endearing character. I love that she wasn’t the picture of physical perfection. Maybe it’s just me, but sometimes I get tired of reading about main characters staring in a mirror thinking how gorgeous they are. I admired her values. You can’t not like Jane. I dare you to try ;) Nico didn’t win me over immediately, but as his relationship with Jane blossomed I found my first impression changing. He had that damaged, but redeemable hero thing going on that I kind of dig. The romance between Jane and Nico was well paced. It was a case of opposites attracting, but they complimented each other so perfectly. The mystery was a nice little twist. While I found it predictable I don’t feel the predictability took away from the story. Jane’s struggles and growth is what this book is all about. Her character undergoes so many experiences during the course of the novel. Falling in love, drama with her selfish siblings, heartbreak, and more. I was surprised how quickly I finished this after picking it up. I was just so engrossed in everything that was happening. This is the kind of book you sacrifice sleep for.
I wish I could comment on how well modern day Jane lives up to the book that inspired it. I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed April Lindner’s take, and was thrilled there were no vampires, zombies, or werewolves lurking around the grounds of Thornfield Park ;) Loved the idea of a rockstar love interest. I also loved that the hottie rockstar was close to my age (he’s older though *wink*) And yes, I do plan to read Jane Eyre so maybe I’ll give this one a re-read after. Hopefully this book will encourage others to pick up the classic as well.
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LibraryThing member stephxsu
Her parents dead and her cold older siblings unwilling to provide her with financial support, college student Jane Moore is forced to take on a nanny job at Thornfield Park, home to Nico Rathburn, one of the world’s most famous rock stars who is about to make his comeback from years of partying
Fans of the Charlotte Bronte original will no doubt cheer for this loyal modernization of Jane Eyre. For those of us who are more ambiguous about how we feel about Jane Eyre, however, JANE does little to convince us otherwise.
What April Lindner does best in JANE is capturing the mood and tone of the original story. The tormented romance between the Janes and their employers, the enigmatic attractiveness of the Mr. Rochester character…it’s all here.
What’s missing in JANE, however, is Jane’s inner passion, a part of her that is all too easily overlooked, especially if you’re me and was lukewarm about the original. In Jane Eyre, readers see a fierce determination within her to stay true to herself and speak to her mind. Grown-up Jane, in turn, retains some of this passion and drive, even though on the surface she seems submissive. Jane Moore, on the other hand, starts out as a rather passive and flat character and remains so throughout the story. She feels like she was born an old lady, instead of like how Jane Eyre learned how to hide her fieriness.
Jane Eyre was no Pride and Prejudice for me, and I think that’s what makes it and all subsequent retellings still difficult for me to immerse myself in. I think most people either love or don’t care for Jane Eyre, and the divisions will most likely still stand for this modernization. Bronte fans will cherish the familiarity of this story—the tormented Nico Rathburn, Jane’s levelheadedness, their slowly unfolding romance. And thus the very things that bother people in Jane Eyre will most likely still bother them in JANE. Give the book a try: it’s superbly written and up to the original’s standards, but there’s little it can do to convince you to love it if you weren’t a fan of Jane Eyre in the first place.
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and drama. As Jane gets to know Nico, she finds that, against her practical nature, she is drawn to him. But they seem to be so different in both class status and personality, and even bigger secrets will keep them apart once they come to light…Fans of the Charlotte Bronte original will no doubt cheer for this loyal modernization of Jane Eyre. For those of us who are more ambiguous about how we feel about Jane Eyre, however, JANE does little to convince us otherwise.
What April Lindner does best in JANE is capturing the mood and tone of the original story. The tormented romance between the Janes and their employers, the enigmatic attractiveness of the Mr. Rochester character…it’s all here.
What’s missing in JANE, however, is Jane’s inner passion, a part of her that is all too easily overlooked, especially if you’re me and was lukewarm about the original. In Jane Eyre, readers see a fierce determination within her to stay true to herself and speak to her mind. Grown-up Jane, in turn, retains some of this passion and drive, even though on the surface she seems submissive. Jane Moore, on the other hand, starts out as a rather passive and flat character and remains so throughout the story. She feels like she was born an old lady, instead of like how Jane Eyre learned how to hide her fieriness.
Jane Eyre was no Pride and Prejudice for me, and I think that’s what makes it and all subsequent retellings still difficult for me to immerse myself in. I think most people either love or don’t care for Jane Eyre, and the divisions will most likely still stand for this modernization. Bronte fans will cherish the familiarity of this story—the tormented Nico Rathburn, Jane’s levelheadedness, their slowly unfolding romance. And thus the very things that bother people in Jane Eyre will most likely still bother them in JANE. Give the book a try: it’s superbly written and up to the original’s standards, but there’s little it can do to convince you to love it if you weren’t a fan of Jane Eyre in the first place.
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LibraryThing member jjameli
LOVED Jane! First, I would like to put out there that I have never read Jane Eyre, so I don't have anything to compare it to. It's hard to believe though that I wouldn't have enjoyed this book having read Jane Eyre...anyways.
Jane had a rough childhood, basically overshadowed by her siblings. She
I immediately was drawn to Jane, I can't help I love the underdogs. She flashes back to moments with her family, and you realize how horrible she was treated. You get to understand why Jane is practical, and serious, and plain, she had to be that way to live with her family. When Jane gets the job with Nico, she doesn't gush like a school girl, infact she remember's just a little of his music because her brother was fan, but she has to do research on him to get a better idea of who she will be working for. She was just a no nonsense kinda girl. Nico was an enigma to me...really, does a rock star fall for the plain jane girl? Well, Ms. Lindner's rock star does. Author Ms. Lindner decided to make Nico a man dealing with his past, and over the typical rock star antics. He seems a man ready to do things right, and enjoy moments that just are. I liked him immediately as well. I knew I would love Jane because I loved the characters. I think they were exactly what they needed.
Jane is a love story with a gothic feel to it. Very, very good!
Jane had a rough childhood, basically overshadowed by her siblings. She
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was the ugly duckling, and was treated like the stepdaughter. When her parents die, and stocks left by her parents to her don't amount to much money, Jane has to drop out of Sarah Lawrence, and get a job. She gets a job as a nanny taking care of famous rock star Nico Rathburn's daughter. While taking care of the little girl, she begins to fall for Nico, and Thornfield Hall, but all isn't perfect. Jane is warned not to go up to the third floor, and Jane knows something is not right, fires start in the middle of the night, laughing and cackling noises come from upstairs, and Nico brushes these things aside as if they are not a big deal, but Jane knows there is more to the story. I immediately was drawn to Jane, I can't help I love the underdogs. She flashes back to moments with her family, and you realize how horrible she was treated. You get to understand why Jane is practical, and serious, and plain, she had to be that way to live with her family. When Jane gets the job with Nico, she doesn't gush like a school girl, infact she remember's just a little of his music because her brother was fan, but she has to do research on him to get a better idea of who she will be working for. She was just a no nonsense kinda girl. Nico was an enigma to me...really, does a rock star fall for the plain jane girl? Well, Ms. Lindner's rock star does. Author Ms. Lindner decided to make Nico a man dealing with his past, and over the typical rock star antics. He seems a man ready to do things right, and enjoy moments that just are. I liked him immediately as well. I knew I would love Jane because I loved the characters. I think they were exactly what they needed.
Jane is a love story with a gothic feel to it. Very, very good!
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LibraryThing member resugo
This is an updated retelling of the classic, Jane Eyre. And from a huge fan of the original, Lindner did a wonderful reworking. I loved it. I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning to finish Jane's story even though I knew the basic plot and how it was going to end. It was just too delicious!
I
My one problem was the book was the ending. Jane and Nico are finally together again...and then it's over. So sad to turn the last page. I wanted a longer resolution!
I
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thought it was very clever how Lindner modified Bronte's original story to work in today's world. Jane wasn't an orphan growing up, but she did feel very distant from her family. Her brother was cruel instead of her cousin. Nico's wild past was as a rock star. And though Jane doesn't forget her past when she meets the River family, her desire to keep it secret made sense. It all worked. My one problem was the book was the ending. Jane and Nico are finally together again...and then it's over. So sad to turn the last page. I wanted a longer resolution!
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LibraryThing member bookwormygirl
When Jane finds herself dropping out of college due to financial difficulties after her parents' sudden death, she finds herself in need of a job. She looks to an agency for assistance which places her as a nanny for a little girl whose father just happens to be a famous rockstar on the brink of a
I have to start this review by saying two things:
1- This is a modern remake of the classic Jane Eyre
2- I have never read Jane Eyre (I know, I know!)
So consider this the review of someone who is not one of the devoted fans of the classic.
With that said, I absolutely loved this book. Jane was so sensible, conservative, honest, loyal and innocent. I loved her! You can't help but love her. She goes through so much in this book - she deals with the fact that she's all alone after losing her parents and her siblings are too self-absorbed in their greed to take her in, her budding feelings for Nico, the drama, new friendships, heartbreak. I felt like I almost needed to take her under my wing - I even felt over protective of her. Nico was exactly what I could have hoped for. Although at first I was a little hesitant about him, he eventually won me over. I loved how the romance between Nico and Jane was an undertone to their story. It was perfectly paced and very sweet. I enjoyed the time they spent together - their dialogue and push and pull.
Aside from the romance, I must also make note on the ambiance of the story itself. Although the story is modern and set in present time, it still had an old world feel to it. That might have to do with Thornfield Park (Nico's home) - which was described as grandiose, yet dark. It had a very gothic feel to it. There's also the danger in the attic: the fires, the maniacal laughter, all the strange happenings after dark, and the mysterious servants... it was all well done.
Although I really cannot sit here and compare Jane with its inspiration, I feel that this modern remake will be a hit with the YA crowd. There's romance and a mystery (albeit somewhat predictable) and Ms. Lindner's writing is superb - it draws you in right from the first page. All in all, I found a wonderful story in Jane - one that I can highly recommend to everyone (even those who haven't read Jane Eyre). And if you're like me, it just might inspire you to read the classic as well.
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comeback tour. Quiet and sensible Jane finds herself attracted the older and famous Nico. Nico finds himself drawn to Jane for her honesty. She is the first person who tells him how she feels instead of telling him what he wants to hear. Can mousy Jane be exactly what Nico needs in his life? Can Nico's secrets be something Jane can see past or will they ultimately tear them apart?I have to start this review by saying two things:
1- This is a modern remake of the classic Jane Eyre
2- I have never read Jane Eyre (I know, I know!)
So consider this the review of someone who is not one of the devoted fans of the classic.
With that said, I absolutely loved this book. Jane was so sensible, conservative, honest, loyal and innocent. I loved her! You can't help but love her. She goes through so much in this book - she deals with the fact that she's all alone after losing her parents and her siblings are too self-absorbed in their greed to take her in, her budding feelings for Nico, the drama, new friendships, heartbreak. I felt like I almost needed to take her under my wing - I even felt over protective of her. Nico was exactly what I could have hoped for. Although at first I was a little hesitant about him, he eventually won me over. I loved how the romance between Nico and Jane was an undertone to their story. It was perfectly paced and very sweet. I enjoyed the time they spent together - their dialogue and push and pull.
Aside from the romance, I must also make note on the ambiance of the story itself. Although the story is modern and set in present time, it still had an old world feel to it. That might have to do with Thornfield Park (Nico's home) - which was described as grandiose, yet dark. It had a very gothic feel to it. There's also the danger in the attic: the fires, the maniacal laughter, all the strange happenings after dark, and the mysterious servants... it was all well done.
Although I really cannot sit here and compare Jane with its inspiration, I feel that this modern remake will be a hit with the YA crowd. There's romance and a mystery (albeit somewhat predictable) and Ms. Lindner's writing is superb - it draws you in right from the first page. All in all, I found a wonderful story in Jane - one that I can highly recommend to everyone (even those who haven't read Jane Eyre). And if you're like me, it just might inspire you to read the classic as well.
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LibraryThing member MaestraArmstrong
This book should have been good. I had high hopes because the premise of this version makes sense. New Jane is a Sarah Lawrence drop-out; New Rochester (Nico Rathburn) is a rock star. On the surface this book seems like it would be a successful updated version of one of the greatest romance novels
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of all time. The problem, though, is this book only stays at surface level. It never goes beyond just changing the names and places of the original. Jane's character being not fully developed is what really weakens this book. Nico, who is underdeveloped and a bit more creepy than brooding, doesn't add much to the story either. Overall, this was a very disappointing purchase, but it may appeal to some of my eighth grade classroom readers. Show Less
LibraryThing member Dutchgirl73
Imagine Jane Eyre as a modern day teenager whose disfunctional family has left her alone and nearly penniless after her parents death. She takes a job as a nanny to a famous rockstar with a young daughter and a secret hidden away in his mansion.
Although it had been years since I read Jane Eyre (and
I have to admit that one of my guilty pleasures is to read updates of classic books, and this one is one of the best I've read so far!
Although it had been years since I read Jane Eyre (and
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now I plan to re-read it), I knew where the story was going. At times, the characters were less than completely believable, because they did seem a bit out of time. Even so, the story is so classic, that I couldn't stop turning the pages. Even though I knew what was coming, I had to read on to see how the author managed to update it to the present.I have to admit that one of my guilty pleasures is to read updates of classic books, and this one is one of the best I've read so far!
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LibraryThing member tjsjohanna
As a re-telling of Jane Eyre, this succeeds on a number of fronts. First, Ms. Lindner does a remarkable job of translating the original to a modern setting - finding ways to incorporate class differences, mental illness, and even the missionary zeal of St. John. Secondly, this Jane is a believable
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modern character who still feels like the original in her personality and sensibilities. Show Less
LibraryThing member mt256
Jane Eyre is one of my favorite books. So when I discovered this modern day retelling of it, I was thrilled. I really liked how April Lindner brought Charlotte Bronte's classic into the 21st century. Jane Moore has to drop out of college and take on a job as a nanny after her parents are killed in
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a car accident. Jane is an okay character. She's shy but independent. It took awhile for me to warm up to her character. I did like that April Lindner made Nico Rathburn a rock star. I think it gave this story an interesting twist. Nico has a troubled past that plagues his thoughts constantly. I do wish that Author would have developed Jane and Nico's relationship a bit more. Jane and Nico's romance seemed a bit rushed. However the author did a remarkable job following the original Jane Eyre story line. Overall Jane is an entertaining story. This book has it's flaws but I am glad that I read it. If you like Jane Eyre, I think you should check this book out. Show Less
LibraryThing member Bookswithbite
I can't began to impress how much I loved this book. Not only did it give me butterflies but the way everything flowed was outstanding!
I loved Jane. She was such a humble person and I loved watching her fall in love with Nico. No matter how much it hurt to watch him with another girl Jane remained
Now Nico I felt played her. Yes he genuinely liked her but he lied a lot. He was sweet and caring towards her. I wished he had been more open. I admired him as well. I understand the secret he kept and hurt with him. But in doing what he did for her was selfless too. He knew he done wrong and just wanted to make it up as much as he can. I loved that Jane was able to see past all of that.
The love that was between them was a endless, selfless love. The loved each other deeply and of course showed it every much. The secrets in the book were a big WOW! It hurt to learn them along with Jane but I think Jane has such a great heart it didn't matter.
Jane is an adoringly heart breaking book with great characters and writing. I could not put this book down. There was some cursing and a small sex scene.
I loved Jane. She was such a humble person and I loved watching her fall in love with Nico. No matter how much it hurt to watch him with another girl Jane remained
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strong. She was the type of person who did not bring any other problems, her problems, etc to someone else. She was selfless. She did what he ask as her employer and did not let anything cross the line. I admired her strength and loved the way she watched everything Nico did. She was in love with him.Now Nico I felt played her. Yes he genuinely liked her but he lied a lot. He was sweet and caring towards her. I wished he had been more open. I admired him as well. I understand the secret he kept and hurt with him. But in doing what he did for her was selfless too. He knew he done wrong and just wanted to make it up as much as he can. I loved that Jane was able to see past all of that.
The love that was between them was a endless, selfless love. The loved each other deeply and of course showed it every much. The secrets in the book were a big WOW! It hurt to learn them along with Jane but I think Jane has such a great heart it didn't matter.
Jane is an adoringly heart breaking book with great characters and writing. I could not put this book down. There was some cursing and a small sex scene.
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LibraryThing member francescadefreitas
Jane Eyre with a rock star Mr. Rochester.
I was disappointed with this, I thought the Rock star angle could make for a fun modern retelling of one of my favorite stories. But I think the author tried to stay too close to the original, Leaving the characters the same, just changing the setting and it
I was disappointed with this, I thought the Rock star angle could make for a fun modern retelling of one of my favorite stories. But I think the author tried to stay too close to the original, Leaving the characters the same, just changing the setting and it
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didn't work for me. I couldn't believe in such a passive, silly Jane in the modern world. Show Less
LibraryThing member lawral
In the review of a book like this, a modern romantic retelling of a classic, you might expect a bit of commentary about how the retelling relates or compares to the classic. Since I've never read Jane Eyre, which would make the comparison a little difficult. More importantly, I've never had any
Well, Jane Moore apparently never had that daydream. She's very serious and very artistic at the same time. I bet her doodles never involved practicing her Mrs. Nico Rathburn signature (or any other future signature, for that matter) in middle school. That's why when she gets to Thornfield Park and finally meets Mr. Rathburn, the guy all the guys want to be and all the girls want to date, she's completely blindsided by the feelings she develops for him. From the very beginning, Mr. Rathburn takes Jane seriously and values her opinion, not only because she's basically raising his daughter Maddy, but because he sees intelligence and value in her. The problem is that with their real big age difference (which I would have loved to see addressed or at least acknowledged at some point) and his role as Jane's employer, she's never sure if he's interested in her as Miss Jane, Maddy's nanny, or Jane, all on her own.
What follows is a book's worth of "does he like like me?" introspection and touching moments that will generate enough butterflies in your belly to last a lifetime. It's practically a fairytale in its perfection...
...until you realize that you're reaching the happy ending only about 2/3 of the way through, but to go into why would make things a bit spoilery.
In short, this is the story of a great romance. It combines all those timeless, delicious feelings of a first love with the glamor of the rich and famous and the realities of how real life can intrude on both.
Book source: ARC provided by the publishe
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desire to read the original, and yet Jane was one of the new books I most eagerly awaited this fall. Because, really, who hasn't had a daydream (or two) about a chance meeting with a rockstar/actor/hot guy in French class where you fall in love and live happily ever after in a mansion? Well, Jane Moore apparently never had that daydream. She's very serious and very artistic at the same time. I bet her doodles never involved practicing her Mrs. Nico Rathburn signature (or any other future signature, for that matter) in middle school. That's why when she gets to Thornfield Park and finally meets Mr. Rathburn, the guy all the guys want to be and all the girls want to date, she's completely blindsided by the feelings she develops for him. From the very beginning, Mr. Rathburn takes Jane seriously and values her opinion, not only because she's basically raising his daughter Maddy, but because he sees intelligence and value in her. The problem is that with their real big age difference (which I would have loved to see addressed or at least acknowledged at some point) and his role as Jane's employer, she's never sure if he's interested in her as Miss Jane, Maddy's nanny, or Jane, all on her own.
What follows is a book's worth of "does he like like me?" introspection and touching moments that will generate enough butterflies in your belly to last a lifetime. It's practically a fairytale in its perfection...
...until you realize that you're reaching the happy ending only about 2/3 of the way through, but to go into why would make things a bit spoilery.
In short, this is the story of a great romance. It combines all those timeless, delicious feelings of a first love with the glamor of the rich and famous and the realities of how real life can intrude on both.
Book source: ARC provided by the publishe
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LibraryThing member LauraT81
If you love Jane Eyre then your have to read Jane, the debut young adult novel by author April Linder.
Jane Moore, penniless and estranged from her siblings, has to drop out of Sarah Lawrence a few months after her parents die in a car accident. She joins a nanny agency and accepts a position as
Linder modernizes the classic, but stays so true to the story. I could hardly put this one down. Great debut! I'm looking forward to see what's next from this author.
Jane Moore, penniless and estranged from her siblings, has to drop out of Sarah Lawrence a few months after her parents die in a car accident. She joins a nanny agency and accepts a position as
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nanny to rockstar, Nico Rathburn's daughter. Jane remembers the stories she's read in the tabloids about the wild womanizer, and wonders what living with him will be like. Soon, she discovers that the man in the magazines is nothing like the man she comes to love...Linder modernizes the classic, but stays so true to the story. I could hardly put this one down. Great debut! I'm looking forward to see what's next from this author.
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LibraryThing member ethel55
Jane Moore, orphaned and unable to pay her tuition at Sarah Lawrence (obviously their financial aid office dropped the ball there), heads to a Nanny placement service and finds work as the nanny for an aging rock star, Nico Rathburn. Many of the gothic devices of the original are here, the remote
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estate, offlimits areas and an oddball housekeeper, that help propel the story along a more modern road. If this story leads more teens to the original Jane Eyre, all the better. Show Less
Awards
Eliot Rosewater Indiana High School Book Award (Nominee — 2013)
Volunteer State Book Award (Nominee — High School — 2013)
Georgia Peach Book Award for Teen Readers (Nominee — 2012)
Original publication date
2010-10-11
Physical description
384 p.; 5.31 inches
ISBN
0316084204 / 9780316084208